(a) In implementing this article, the department may use the process outlined in subdivision (c) of Section 14126.02 to obtain professional consulting services for the purpose of finalizing design of the system, procurement of required technical hardware and software, establishing operational parameters, implementation, and transitional management pending assumption of operational management by state staff.

(b) The ratesetting system described in subdivision (b) of Section 14126.02 shall be developed expeditiously in order to meet the implementation date required under Section 14126.02.

(c) To ensure compliance with the timeframes set forth in this article, it is the intent of the Legislature that the department be authorized to hire up to three full-time equivalents to support implementation and continuous operation of the system.

(Added by Stats. 2004, Ch. 875, Sec. 5. Effective September 29, 2004. Conditionally inoperative as provided in subd. (a) of Section 14126.035. Inoperative after December 31, 2026, pursuant to Section 14126.036. Repealed as of January 1, 2028, pursuant to Section 14126.036.)